DL20

Dajohn Harris

DT USC

Grade

Overview

Harris came on strong for the Trojans late in his career. An inconsistent player in his early career, Harris has blossomed under Lane Kiffin and has been a productive inside force at defensive tackle. A big man who could stand to lose weight as he transitions to the next level, Harris is a former high school tight end who shows it through strong footwork on game day. It is apparent he has learned under the famed Ed Orgeron at USC, as he displays good technique with his hands as well. Look for him to be taken in the early-to-middle rounds if teams can look past his consistency and conditioning issues.

Analysis

Strengths

Harris is quick at the line of scrimmage and fits on his blocks immediately whether it be on a lineman or working up the field. He is not an explosive mover but can stay with his blocks once on them. In pass protection he struggles at times but usually blocks long enough to get the job done. He is technically sound and understands how to use his hands and feet to keep defenders occupied, though his overall athletic ability is average. He works hard to keep defenders moving in the run game and despite his weaknesses is a get-the-job-done player at the end of plays and games.

Weaknesses

Inconsistency has defined and hindered Harris' career. He did not play a lot early on due to NFL talent being ahead of him, and has had conditioning issues in his last two years at USC. He will make big plays and then disappear for stretches; he needs to show he can be a reliable three-down option at the next level. He is an athlete waiting to be unleashed, but first he'll have to solve his conditioning issues. Experience could be a problem as well as Harris has had limited reps against top talent.